As the tide sweeps away the climate change conference that was recently held in Glasgow, it is time to see the actions from lessons and commitments that were made at this high-level conference.
The event-based approach to phenomenon such as climate change is a major drawback to the gains of trying to alleviate climate change and its effects.
As the COP26 was ongoing a few weeks ago, we published a story on Chireya residents coming together again to do a rain-making ceremony in preparation for the coming planting season.
To some, this was just a story about the usual and cultural rain-making ceremonies that are held in certain societies.
Looking at it from a different perspective, this depicts a certain level of understanding within the community. They accept that the rains are more erratic than the yesteryears, they are feeling the pinch of climate change and there is acknowledgment at a societal level.
However, the government and other climate change agencies must take this opportunity to introduce to the people the science behind changes the Zimbabwean communities are experiencing.
There should be a synergy between science and culture. Grassroots activism is more important as it brings people together against an identified problem at a local level.
Different communities have their ways of life. A one size fits all approach to this may not be very effective. The use of local traditional leaders as message bearers and environmental champions will bring much-needed results in climate risk reduction.
Random mining activities and deforestation are some of the main contributors. It is essential to introduce the concepts of greener energy, and the planting back culture in villages across the country as a way of building back the eroded forests.
The successes of the Pfumvudza/Intwasa concept are proof enough that the local people are ready to adapt and accept innovative ways of mitigating climate change in Zimbabwe.
Yes, the COP 26 was an all flowery conference where the government had to show face and their support to the climate change trajectory, but without the work, without the grassroots support then it’s all for nothing, but a show.
